Electric furnaces are a popular choice for homeowners because of their efficiency and reliability. However, like any heating system, they can experience unique problems that disrupt their performance and comfort. Let’s explore some common issues electric furnace owners may face, including tripped circuits and burning odors, along with tips to address them effectively. If these issues have been recurring in your home, it may be time to consider a full heater replacement that better suits your long-term comfort and energy needs.
Just remember, for electric furnace repair in Cedar Rapids, IA, trust the Dalton team!
Why Your Furnace Trips the Breaker
Electric furnaces require a significant amount of power to operate. When the system overloads the circuit, it can cause the breaker to trip, cutting off the power supply. This problem can arise due to several factors:
- Overloaded Circuits: If the furnace shares a circuit with other high-energy appliances, the combined power draw may exceed the circuit’s capacity.
- Faulty Wiring: Loose or damaged wiring can lead to electrical surges that trip the breaker.
- Malfunctioning Components: A failing blower motor or heating element may draw more current than necessary, causing the breaker to trip.
Here are the possible solutions:
- Check whether other devices are connected to the same circuit or outlet and move them if possible. It could be overloaded.
- Inspect the breaker panel for signs of damage or wear, and consult an electrician to repair any faulty wiring. We can replace your electrical panel if needed.
- Schedule a professional inspection to identify and replace malfunctioning furnace components.
Furnace Burning Smell? Here’s Why
Homeowners may sometimes notice a burning smell when the furnace runs. While not always dangerous, it’s essential to identify the source quickly to prevent potential hazards. Common causes include:
- Dust Accumulation: Dust settling on the heating elements during periods of inactivity can burn off when the furnace is first used.
- Overheating Components: Blocked air filters or restricted airflow can cause parts of the furnace to overheat, leading to a scorched smell.
- Electrical Issues: A burnt plastic or metallic odor may indicate damaged wires or connections inside the furnace.
If your unit is regularly overheating or producing unusual smells, it might indicate deeper system issues—here are furnace symptoms you don’t want to ignore when weighing repair vs. replacement.
The possible solutions:
- Replace or clean the air filters regularly to maintain proper airflow.
- Turn off the furnace immediately if the smell persists or resembles burning plastic, and call a professional technician to inspect the system.
- Schedule routine maintenance to keep your furnace clean and in optimal condition.
Thermostat Issues and Furnace Performance
Another common issue with electric furnaces is when the thermostat fails to communicate effectively with the heating system. This can result in uneven temperatures or the furnace not turning on at all. Causes include:
- Dead Batteries: If the thermostat is battery-operated, dead batteries can prevent it from functioning.
- Miscalibration: The thermostat may not accurately read the room’s temperature, causing inconsistent heating.
- Wiring Problems: Loose or frayed connections between the thermostat and the furnace can interrupt communication.
The possible solutions:
- Replace the thermostat batteries if necessary, or work with our team to get it hooked up to your home’s grid. Most modern thermostats have this capability.
- Contact a professional to repair any wiring issues or consider upgrading to a smart thermostat for better control.
Signs Your Furnace Is Losing Efficiency
If the furnace isn’t producing enough heat or is costing too much to run, it may stem from:
- Dirty Heating Elements
- Blocked Vents
- Aging Furnace Parts
The solution: Schedule an appointment so we can inspect and address any problems promptly! If your energy bills keep rising or repairs are becoming frequent, take a moment to review late-season heating repair signs that may indicate your system is on its last legs.